Interview Recap: Sen. Tom Cotton Discusses Key Issues on "Face the Nation," Jan. 4, 2026

MARGARET BRENNAN: We're now with Arkansas Republican Senator Tom Cotton, who leads the Senate Intelligence Committee. Welcome, Senator.

SEN. TOM COTTON: Glad to be here, Margaret.

MARGARET BRENNAN: You oversee intelligence operations, notably the military venture to Venezuela to capture Nicolás Maduro. Is the U.S. stance still considering the Venezuelan leadership as narcotics operatives allied with nations like Iran, Russia, China, and Cuba?

SEN. COTTON: Firstly, our military should be lauded; this operation's success, as highlighted by the President, was possible thanks to the unmatched prowess of U.S. forces and invaluable intelligence support, especially from the CIA. Under Director John Ratcliffe, confidence in the CIA has grown exponentially, fostering presidential trust as never before. The Venezuelan regime's key figures are sanctioned criminals who stood by Maduro until his removal. President Trump is now offering them a possibility to reform, akin to past scenarios in Syria with figures like Ahmed al-Sharaa or Libya's Gaddafi, but only if they meet U.S. interests with substantive measures.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Do you believe it's feasible for these leaders to sever their cartel connections entirely?

SEN. COTTON: The President is open to them making a fresh start, aiding us in achieving our objectives there.

MARGARET BRENNAN: What's your timeframe for seeing these changes?

SEN. COTTON: My patience is short, yet discussions continue, particularly around halting drug and arms trafficking, military stability in accepting back refugees, and realigning with global norms.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Should fostering a democratic Venezuela remain a U.S. aim? Is there a roadmap from the administration on this?

SEN. COTTON: It's certainly an important goal. Opposition leaders have pushed for new elections, and I hope the present regime enables exiles' return, paving the way for fair elections.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Reports suggest the CIA had internal Venezuelan assistance to track Maduro for capture. The President decided against paying the $50 million reward. Does this mean our source continues to work with us?

SEN. COTTON: I can't discuss CIA operations or informants, but the CIA's adeptness here signals to adversaries globally that we're acutely aware of their maneuvers.

MARGARET BRENNAN: The President mentioned U.S. willingness to manage affairs in Venezuela. Are these insights based on ground intelligence?

SEN. COTTON: We have solid insights not just into Venezuela but also nations and groups globally, which is why the President trusts the CIA so deeply.

MARGARET BRENNAN: But the interim leader spoke with Russia recently, considering their strong ties. Could there be an understanding with Russia?

SEN. COTTON: There's no such agreement. Our mission was independent to arrest Maduro because of his criminal ties, with no diplomatic exceptions given.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Let's discuss potential follow-up military actions after a break. Stay tuned.

Expanded Military Options Discussed: Post-Interview Segment

MARGARET BRENNAN: Back with Senator Tom Cotton. The President mentioned a second possible military action. What might trigger it, and what scope of action do you support?

SEN. COTTON: The President implied we could replicate our operations with other Venezuelan leaders who are similarly charged. It's a caution to change their ways to avoid similar consequences.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Would a stabilization force be deployed, similar to previous suggestions?

SEN. COTTON: While we've had military presence, the President's directive remains protective of America's citizens and interests. Combat and stabilization roles differ, hence the President is selective based on precise objectives.

MARGARET BRENNAN: With current military readiness, is further congressional approval required?

SEN. COTTON: I'm confident in our military strategy, designed to paralyze Maduro's cartel collaborations until the region moves toward tranquility and partnership with the U.S.

MARGARET BRENNAN: On congressional oversight and the War Powers Act in relation to these operations?

SEN. COTTON: This mission postulated brief engagements with forces withdrawn soon after. My dialogues with top officials ensure Congress’s awareness of intent and execution.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Yet, given high cocaine prices and persistent route changes, is Venezuela's problem solely drug-related?

SEN. COTTON: The Venezuelan administration exhibits direct complicity with drug trafficking, unlike other regional regimes, making it imperative to dismantle such governmental-criminal alliances.

MARGARET BRENNAN: Appreciate your insights, Senator.

SEN. COTTON: Thank you, Margaret.

MARGARET BRENNAN: More discussions when we return.